While many chefs are content to follow tradition, Chef Stefano Mattara brings fresh energy and imagination to the heart of Bellagio’s culinary scene. At Sottovoce, perched above Lake Como, he masterfully redefines what it means to serve local cuisine.
Prima del suo arrivo, Bellagio’s restaurants leaned heavily on classic dishes, but Mattara, with his background della Societ Gualtiero Marchesi, has found a way to pay homage to tradition while also shaking things up. Si parte with a menu that celebrates the rich bounty of the lake and surrounding regions, highlighting flavors that are both familiar and surprisingly new. Visitors can also explore the charming towns like Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio that offer unique lakeside experiences.
Blending tradition with innovation, Chef Mattara crafts a menu that honors Lake Como’s bounty while introducing unexpected, exciting flavors.
Chef Mattara is especially passionate about using lake fish, an ingredient he feels is too often overlooked. Since 2018, he has created dishes that make the most of what Lake Como has to offer, all while supporting the Gente di Lago e di Fiume initiative to promote sustainable fishing and local communities.
One of his most talked-about starters is the gorgonzola gelato with caramelized pears and walnuts—a playful twist that blends the pungent, creamy cheese with sweet fruit and crunchy nuts. This appetizer is not only a conversation starter, but a perfect example of Mattara’s skill at combining local ingredients with contemporary flair.
The journey at Sottovoce continues with plates like ceviche of lake fish, which takes a dish often associated with South America and roots it firmly in the Italian lakeside tradition. E il result? Diners are treated to food that is fresh, inventive, and deeply connected to its surroundings.
Mattara’s training under Marchesi is evident in his careful reinterpretation of recipes from Lombardy and Piemonte, transforming them for a modern audience without losing their soul. His innovative approach aligns with the region’s emphasis on local cuisine, showcasing the flavors and traditions that define Lake Como.
Sottovoce has quickly earned accolades from prestigious gastronomic guides, earning its place among the best Italian restaurants on Lake Como.
Through his unique vision and commitment to sustainability, Chef Stefano Mattara has not only elevated Bellagio’s culinary reputation but inspired both locals and visitors to appreciate the flavors of the lake in entirely new ways.
